How to Advocate for Accessible Seating
Fat AF! is a peer support space for fat folx only. We hold space for each other, offer support and feedback, and share resources. These tips came from Fat AF! participants—resources from real fat people, for fat people.
Wanna join us? Find more info here.
***
I think most of us fat folx have experienced terrible seating at a venue, work, the doctor’s office, and pretty much wherever the fuck there’s seating in public spaces. For most of my life, I tolerated the discomfort and pain because of the shame I felt at the hands of internalized fatphobia (and the fear of others’ fatphobic reactions, too). Everything changed for me after we had a great discussion in one of our Fat AF! groups about how to navigate inaccessible seating. The following suggestions came from our very own Fat AF! participants, and I was able to utilize them just a few days later. For the first time in my life, I spoke up about seating that didn’t suit me and was able to receive a seat that I could comfortable fit in. So, it works! I swear!
Assume they want to help
Most establishments, especially businesses, are in the position to want their customers have the best possible experience. Even if this isn’t the case, it’s also likely that people aren’t aware of the limitations present in their spaces. When advocating for accessible seating, go into it assuming that they want to help you, and speak to them in a matter-of-fact manner that insinuates such.
No apologies
Don’t apologize for needing a seat that accommodates you, and don’t frame your statement in a way that would position your body as the problem. It’s the seating that’s the problem, not you. Begin your request in a matter of fact way:
“This chair does not accommodate me.” (Instead of, “I don’t fit in this seat.”)
Be specific
Ask directly for what you need and be specific about what type of seat accommodates you.
“Do you have a wider chair without arms?”
When venues don’t have what you need, make a specific recommendation. One participant encouraged her doctor’s office to purchase accessible seating:
“I encourage you to get bench seating, which is versatile for many bodies.”
And they did!
***
Looking for support from a fellow fat liberationist? Sliding scale peer counseling and tarot readings start at $30. Book a free consultation or full session here.
Looking for fat community? Join our intimate peer support space, Fat AF! Or check out our monthly (and free!) Fat Fridays Virtual Social Club.